LONDON – The British government has announced a sweeping overhaul of its asylum policy, marking one of the most comprehensive reforms to the country’s refugee system in modern times. The change introduces tougher rules that will make the path to permanent residency significantly longer for asylum seekers.
Under the new policy, the status granted to refugees will be temporary rather than permanent. Crucially, the waiting time for permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) will be extended from the current five years to 20 years.
Government’s Motivation and Rationale
The Labour government states the move is designed to crack down on the increasing number of migrants arriving from France via small, illegal boats. A key objective is to limit the influence of the right-wing Reform UK party, which has successfully pushed immigration policy to the forefront of the national agenda.
The government indicated that the policy draws inspiration from the Danish model, which is known for having some of Europe’s strictest immigration laws. The tightening of rules across Europe reflects growing anti-immigrant sentiment, although human rights groups have been quick to criticize the UK’s measures.
Key Policy Changes: Reduced Support and Temporary Status
The new rules introduce several major shifts:
-
Temporary Status and Review: Refugee protection status will be temporary and subject to regular review. It can be revoked if the asylum seeker’s home country is deemed safe again.
-
Regular Reviews: The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, confirmed that the status of refugees will now be reviewed every two years and six months.
-
Targeted Support: Taxpayer-funded support, including housing and weekly allowances, will now be restricted. Only those who are working or actively contributing to local communities and the economy will receive this support.
-
Sanctions: Refugees who are able to work but choose not to, or who break the law, will lose access to government support.
The New Path to Permanent Settlement
The most significant change is the extension of the waiting period for permanent settlement. While the UK system has historically been considered more liberal than many European counterparts, where refugees often gain automatic permanent residence after five years, this will now change.
“Our goal is to prioritize those who are contributing to our society and economy,” said Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. “Our approach to refugees will now be one of equal opportunity, but with responsibility.”
The Home Secretary added that further details of the policy, including updates related to Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights, will be shared on Monday. The government’s core message is to reward contribution and impose tougher sanctions on those who are perceived as not integrating or contributing.
